On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. “Human Rights Day DFW will encourage us to carve out December 10th each year, to think and talk about what human rights means to each of us,” says Sanjeeb Samanta, Leader of Global Customer Support Operations at Texas Instruments and the HRI board member who conceived the event. “On this day, we’ll come together as a community to show we care for those who have suffered human rights abuse.”

Restaurants across North Texas continue to join the effort; food-lovers who care about human rights can find an up-to-date list here. Chef Graham Dodds, culinary director of the Statler hotel, has played an advisory role and assisted in organizing the event. “I’m so excited to be part of this great cause,” he says. “Helping refugees is so dear to my heart. It’s inspiring how many fellow chefs are jumping in to benefit our local community.”

Mirador, CBD Provisions, Overeasy, Bourbon & Banter, Americano, Nora, and Four Corners Brewery, have come together to participate in a first-of-its-kind event in support of human rights. On International Human Rights Day – Sunday, Dec. 10 – these participating restaurants will donate 5% of their sales or $250 (whichever is greater) to Human Rights Initiative (HRI) of North Texas. This year, the funds will help directly support immigrant survivors of human rights abuses who live in North Texas. To date, Asian Mint, Café Victoria, Chop House Burger, Cuban Dulceria International Bakery, El Bolero, Lavendou, Look Cinemas, Mercy Wine Bar, Pakpao, The Royale Magnificent Burgers & Beer, The People’s Last Stand, and Secret Recipe have also signed on to participate and will contribute with a flat $250, with others added daily.

It’s a win-win for the community, as diners will be able to show their support as well, by dining at participating restaurants on that day.

“We are very fortunate to live in a city like Dallas, with such a vibrant food culture,” says Bill Holston, executive director of HRI. “We have some of the finest chefs in the country running some of the best kitchens in the country. And even more impressive is how this industry gives back so generously to the community. We are thrilled to have so many great restaurants who are a part of Human Rights Day DFW. We are looking forward to having some amazing food and supporting our human rights work as we share meals together.